County Record: Digital Edition

Penny Record: Digital Edition

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding Texans in advance of the upcoming Primary Election that Election Identification Certificates (EIC) are available year-round at all Texas driver license offices for individuals in need of proper identification required to vote. DPS will be deploying mobile stations to various locations across Texas; and alternate approved locations will be issuing EICs in select counties. Additionally, select driver license offices will be open on Saturday, Feb. 20 and Feb. 27, to issue EICs only.

The 2016 Primary Election is March 1, with early voting from Feb. 16-26. The last day to register to vote is Feb. 1.

Most residents already have an acceptable form of photo identification needed for voting and will not need or qualify for an EIC. If an applicant already has any of the following documents, they are not eligible to receive an EIC:

•Texas driver license – unexpired or expired no longer than 60 days at the time of voting

•Texas personal identification card – unexpired or expired no longer than 60 days at the time of voting

•U.S. passport book or card – unexpired or expired no longer than 60 days at the time of voting

•Texas concealed handgun license – unexpired or expired no longer than 60 days at the time of voting

•U.S. Military identification with photo – unexpired or expired no longer than 60 days at the time of voting

•U.S. Citizenship Certificate or Certificate of Naturalization with photo

•Be eligible to vote in Texas (Bring a valid voter registration card or submit a voter registration application through the Texas Department of Public Safety)

•Be a Texas resident

•Be 17 years and 10 months or older

To avoid delays or complications, DPS urges potential applicants to make sure they have the necessary documentation before arriving at the office, mobile station or alternate approved location.

The EIC receipt an individual receives will include their photo and can be used for voting until the permanent card is delivered by mail.

The EIC is free of charge to qualifying applicants and is valid for six years. There is no expiration date for an EIC for citizens 70 years of age or older. The EIC can only be used for the purpose of voting in an election and may not be used as personal identification.